Kickstart Your Graduate Journey: Tips for Career, Campus, and Well-Being

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  1. Introduction to the Graduate Career Management Center (GCMC) 

At the Graduate Career Management Center (GCMC), we understand that your career is a vital part of your graduate journey. Our experienced career coaches support you at every stage—whether you’re just starting out, exploring new options, making a career change, or aiming to advance in your field. To help you make the most of your graduate experience and prepare for success, we offer a wide range of services and resources tailored specifically for Zicklin MBA and MS students and alumni. 

Career Services for Zicklin MBA and MS Students & Alumni 

  • How to Craft Your Networking Pitch — Learn how to confidently introduce yourself in 30–60 seconds. 
  • Attend a Mock Interview — Gain real-world interview experience with personalized feedback. 
  • Develop Soft Skills — Strengthen your communication, professionalism, and teamwork. (Stay tuned for our upcoming blog on soft skills and communication.) 
  • Improve Job Application Materials — Receive expert feedback on your resumes and cover letters. 
  • Cover Letter Guide and Sample 
  • Resume Writing Webinar: Write a Resume That Stands Out  
  • LinkedIn Headshots Appointments — Get professional photos to enhance your profile. 

To access these services or schedule a career coaching appointment, please log in to your Handshake account. 

Advisor Drop-in Hours 

Students can stop by during these hours for quick questions, resume reviews, job search guidance, or career advice: 

  • Lindsey Plewa – Mondays, 4–5 PM 
  • Jack Pullara – Hot Topics in Business – Tuesdays, 4–5 PM 
  • Annie Himmelsbach – Wednesdays, 4–5 PM 
  • Jennifer Seidman – Thursdays, 4–5 PM 

Visit the GCMC Office: 

Location: 151 East 25th Street, Suite 820 (8th Floor), New York, NY 10010 
Contact: zicklin.gcmc@baruch.cuny.edu 

Learn more about Graduate Career Management Center at the Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College.  

2. Guide to Dressing Professionally 

Making a strong first impression starts with dressing appropriately. Knowing the difference between business formal and business casual attire is essential for interviews, networking events, and employer information sessions. Dressing well not only demonstrates professionalism but also boosts your confidence. 

  • Business Formal – The foundation of executive style; ideal for interviews, presentations, and formal professional events. 
  • Business Casual – A balance of comfort and professionalism; appropriate for most workplace settings, career fairs, and networking opportunities. 

Want to know what to wear and what to avoid? - Read the full blog Guide to Professional Attire for detailed tips on dressing for both business formal and business casual settings. 

3. Explore Career Opportunities Early 

Graduate school is an exciting time to grow academically, personally, and professionally. One of the best steps you can take is to explore career opportunities early, whether through On-Campus Recruiting (OCR), on-campus employment, graduate assistantships, or professional development programs Starting your career journey from day one helps you: 

  • Maximize available resources 
  • Build strong connections
  • Stay ahead of important deadlines 

What is On-Campus Recruiting (OCR)? 

OCR is a hybrid process (on-campus and virtual) that connects Baruch students with employers looking for talent for internships and full-time roles. Employers engage students through: 

  • Job and internship postings 
  • Recruitment and networking events
  • On-Campus Interviews (OCIs) 

How Do I Participate in OCR? 

Handshake is the primary source for all career events on and off campus. You can log into Handshake using your Baruch credentials and then be sure to complete your profile to unlock personalized job recommendations. In Handshake you will be able to register for events, apply for jobs and internships, and explore opportunities. 

Be sure to check eligibility for the jobs and internships you apply for, as some postings may have specific program or graduation date requirements.  

Check eligibility, as some postings may have specific program or year requirements. 

We also offer resources such as supporting international students in their career and professional development journey. Be sure to check out Interstride, a one-stop-shop that empowers international students. Using data-driven technology, the portal provides international students with all the resources they need to transition and thrive in their educational journey abroad. 

4.  Zicklin GCMC Support for International Students at Baruch 

The Zicklin Graduate Career Management Center offers comprehensive career planning services tailored to the unique needs of international graduate students. We provide specialized support, including internship guidance, job search strategies, and professional development opportunities. 

 We are also here to help you navigate your Curricular Practical Training (CPT) journey and other work authorization processes. Our team is here to assist you with identifying employers that might sponsor you or that accept CPT and preparing application materials that highlight your global experience. 

Take advantage of personalized advising and workshops designed to empower you as you build your career in the U.S. and beyond. 

For more information regarding CPT and internship application resources, check out Handshake and go to the Career Center tab on the left-hand side, click on Resources and search “International Student Resources (GCMC).”  Job Search Support for International Students 

For further assistance, contact the International Student Service Center (ISSC), located on the 7th Floor, Room 730. 

5.  Free Learning Tools for Skill-Building 

Boost your skills with these valuable resources: 

  • Management Consulted—Self-paced consulting training 
  • Case Competitions 
  • LinkedIn Learning—Free for Baruch students 
  • Zicklin-related Trade Associations — Industry insights, networking, mentorship, job boards, certifications, and professional branding opportunities 

6. Get Involved: Explore Zicklin Graduate Student Clubs 

Graduate school is more than classes and internships—it’s also about building connections, developing leadership skills, and finding community. Join a Zicklin Graduate Student Club to enhance your experience. 

7. Take Care of Your Mental Health 

Graduate school can feel overwhelming, so remember your well-being matters. Baruch offers several resources to support you: 

  • Baruch Counseling Center — Free, confidential counseling services 
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 anytime for 24/7 support 
  • Support for Students with Disabilities  
  • Event Accommodations — To request accommodations, email zicklin.gcmc@baruch.cuny.edu at least one week in advance 

Baruch is committed to making all events and programs accessible. 

Embrace this exciting chapter with confidence and curiosity—your potential is truly limitless. The Graduate Career Management Center is here to empower you every step of the way, providing invaluable resources to help you turn challenges into opportunities and build the career and life you envision. 

What you’ve seen here is just a glimpse of what’s available dive deeper by exploring all the tools and support on Handshake under “Resources” and the GCMC:https://app.joinhandshake.com/edu/schools/1363/articles 

 

Take full advantage of these offerings, connect with advisors, and make your career goals a reality. Keep pushing forward, stay engaged, and never stop believing in your ability to succeed! 

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